If Jason Karmanos doesn't come back as Assistant GM, then I could see Shanahan sliding into that role. As Shanahan could help Kevyn Adams with big decisions, and also shape the structure of the Rochester Americans. This could also apply to the Senior Advisor role that the Sabres are attempting to fill as well.
At this point, Sabres fans are fed up and looking for a change. There was plenty of available front office staff to hire this offseason, but they seem to be missing out on the big picture. They are filling all of their smaller roles but not addressing the big changes.